Family Fun On The Fly
A safe release of a fish back to the water can be just as exciting as the catch itself. Photo by Dustin Doskocil for CPW
In 2019, according to an Outdoor Industry report, fly-fishing held the title for “the highest rate of first-time participants.” It also saw the biggest jump in participation among all forms of fishing.
Whether you’re an expert ready to add your partner and kids to your fly-fishing adventures or just want to get started, with some patience, the right gear and a few good snacks (may we humbly suggest some Goldfish crackers?), fly fishing can be your next family adventure.
So, what age is best to start packing an extra rod and a few more bags of cheese crackers? Ned Mayers, owner of Western Slope Anglers in Grand Junction, recommends between ages 8 and 10.
“Kids are sponges!” says Mayers. “They pick it up quickly at that age, and that’s when they can really utilize their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.”
This is also when, size-wise, kids are able to use adult gear with few issues. Although some places make kid-sized rods, they can be pricey, and like coats, shoes and whatever TV show is trending at the moment, kids can grow out of them pretty quickly.
If the whole family is just getting into it, lessons and gear rentals are a great way to start. Places like Western Slope Anglers often offer guided trips that come with gear rentals, which can alleviate much of the hassle that comes with planning and logistics.
For those looking to just dip their toes in, the first weekend of June each year is “free fishing weekend” where no fishing license is needed to cast and catch in Colorado’s fishable lakes and streams. In the past, Colorado Parks and Wildlife has partnered with other outdoor organizations to host kid’s fishing days in places like Delta and Grand Junction.
“While COVID regulations derailed a lot of our programs, we saw an incredible increase in outdoor recreation participation in 2020,” says Randy Hampton, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) spokesperson in Western Colorado. “Everyone wanted to get outside and many families took on new hobbies like camping, fishing, mountain biking and paddleboarding.”
Each May also brings Palisade’s Outdoor Heritage days, sponsored by CPW. This event is an opportunity to explore numerous outdoor activities, as well as a chance for kids to snag one of hundreds of free fishing poles from CPW!
Poles and flies aside, other gear need not be fancy. In fact, most gear should be the exact opposite. “Dress to get dirty and to get wet,” suggests Mayers. “If you’re a kid, you’re going to want to chase the crayfish.”
The only truly essential fashion accessory for any fisher hanging out with pointy poles and spiky hooks is eye protection. Mayers stresses the number one safety item is eye protection. Whether it’s stylish sunglasses or goofy goggles (underwater exploring after casting is over, anyone?), everyone involved likely wants to live to (literally) see another day.
So, where to go once you’ve packed the car to the gills with the family and all this gear? Mayers says the Western Slope has plenty of easy, close places to spend the day casting away. Blue Mesa Lakes, Corn Lake and even just off the Riverfront Trail are all places accessible without a National Parks Pass. Kids under age 15 don’t need a fishing permit, but adults involved will need to pick one up.
If you’re an avid fly fisher who’s set on reeling in a big one and you’re eager to teach the next generation how it’s done, keep in mind that kids are still, well, kids. “If they’re done in 20 minutes and they want to go throw rocks or chase the geese, just let ‘em go,” advises Mayers. “That’s all part of it. Don’t force it. Get them outside and don’t worry about a set schedule. Getting them outside is the most important part.”
Originally published in the Summer 2021 issue.